Located within the dynamic Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG), Jackson Cafe is the perfect spot to grab a delicious latte, meet up with friends, or have a much-needed study session. Whether you’re seeking a flavorful brew or a cozy retreat, this cafe delivers an amazing experience for all of its customers.
Coffee and Art

Stepping inside, you’re greeted by an atmosphere that blends the aroma of freshly brewed coffee with the visual, artistic aesthetic of the Ottawa Art Gallery. For art lovers, admission to the OAG is always FREE! The gallery often has various art collections displayed throughout the building as well as group activities (tours, art classes, etc.) for adults and kids alike.
Cozy, Convenient, and Community-Centric
The café’s warm and inviting environment makes it ideal for everything from unwinding to productive study sessions. During many of my visits to the cafe, I have spotted quite a few University of Ottawa students enjoying a hot or iced beverage and fluffy pastry while working on their laptops—a testament to its appeal as a study spot.
Not to mention, with its location right next to the ByWard Market, it’s a convenient stop to recharge before exploring more of what the city has to offer. When my friend visited Ottawa last year, we were able to stop by the cafe for breakfast and then easily explore the Byward market and other nearby tourist attractions together.
Culinary Highlights
Beyond the coffee (their vanilla iced lattes are my personal favourite), the food is perfect for a light lunch! I can’t recommend their gruyère croissant enough—it’s flaky, buttery, and full of savoury flavour. The sandwiches are equally impressive, with a daily rotating selection that keeps the menu fresh and exciting.
Be sure to check out their daily soups and scones, which are always delicious too.
For those with dietary preferences, the cafe also provides a variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options that don’t compromise on flavour.
Did you know? Jackson Cafe’s coffee is crafted by Café Saint-Henri micro-roasters and their delicious treats are provided by Gatineau’s Maison Oddo, known for their pastries and bakery creations.
Exceptional Service
What truly makes Jackson Cafe unforgettable is its outstanding service. The staff are warm and welcoming, consistently going above and beyond to make every visit special. Their kindness and attentiveness add a layer of comfort that’s rare to find, making you feel right at home.
Monthly Social Happy Hour at Jackson Cafe
Looking for the perfect blend of art, creativity, and socializing? The Ottawa Art Gallery’s monthly Happy Hour at Jackson Cafe is where it all comes together. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and light snacks, while mingling with fellow art lovers (Free Admission | Cash Bar | Must be 19+).
The best part? During the Happy Hour (6 PM – 9 PM), you can also participate in Drink & Draw—a relaxed sketching session. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just looking to have fun, this free event offers all the materials you need to get creative.
Plan Your Visit
Jackson Cafe is a destination you shouldn’t miss! So make sure to stop by, indulge in some pastries, and let yourself be inspired by the art all around.
Happy coffee drinking!
Carina
P.S. Here are Jackson Cafe’s hours to help you plan your next visit!
Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Friday: 8 AM – 5 PM
Saturday – Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM
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